Mark Rothko (1903-1970) was of Latvian Jewish descent. He is known for his color field works like Blue, Green, Brown. These were his focus from 1949 until his death in 1970. He painted in the styles of Minimalism and Abstract Expressionism arranging rectangles of color vertically without a tie to representation. He said he was trying to capture the quickness and stillness of spirit in these works. The Rothko Chapel in Houston is a one-man art museum holding 14 large canvases commissioned by John and Dominique de Menil. This landmark opened in 1971. It is a place of both meditation and human rights action events.

It is said that the works of Rothko help us to pause from the overwhelm of the world. The simplicity and mystery of his color fields can take us from the worldly to a space of divine connection. As Holy Week approaches, may we rest our eyes on these rectangles of saturated color. May our rest be a prayer of gratitude for God’s presence in all circumstances. May we return to the shouts of the world renewed in the spirit Rothko hoped to capture for us.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church